How choose christmas gifts for people you do not like

Though you may hate someone with a burning passion, you may find yourself being forced to get them a gift. Such as your in-laws or people at work. But, it's Christmas time so just be nice and You need to release forgiveness to them. Tips to do it...

1. Obviously, you're going to want to not overspend so get them something that doesn't include a lot of thought and time but doesn't leave them thinking how crappy your gift is. So make sure you set a budget.

·Get them something that is generic, where it's not personal so you would be able to give it to just about anybody and it would work.

2. Don't wrap it with yesterday's newspaper though. Yes, we know you hate them, but it's Christmas so find some nice, simple, inexpensive CHRISTMAS wrapping paper. Not Easter or Happy Birthday.

3. When giving the gift, be polite and simply hand it to them, don't make faces or act like doing this is a big chore. Remember: stay classy.

4. and lastly, if this is a grab bag type of thing at the office, you're off the hook with handing it to them!

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America's Future

America’s Future

Charles F. Stanley
Scripture: Galatians 6:7-9
I. Introduction: Is it possible to predict a nation's future? Can we anticipate trends, such as blessing and liberty or poverty and oppression? I believe that a simple yet powerful biblical principle indicates where our nation is headed: You will reap what you sow, more than you sow, and later than you sow. This principle has tremendous implications for America's future. Given the seeds of wickedness that many in our nation are sowing, we are heading toward disaster. It's not too late to change course, but Christians must act now to preserve our precious liberties.
II. The Principle Explained

A. Whatever you and I sow today, we will reap more of later. Galatians 6:7-8 says, "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life."

B. "Sowing to the flesh" refers to indulging the "self"—surrendering to our tendency to sin
(Gal. 5:19-21). Those who practice a life of sin will eventually experience corruption, suffering, and death.

C. "Sowing to the Spirit" means we surrender to the Holy Spirit and allow Christ to live His life through us (Gal. 5:22-23). If we sow to the Spirit, you and I will have supernatural peace in the midst of difficulty and earn eternal rewards.

D. A person who sows wickedness will not escape the harvest of his or her actions. Galatians 6:7 cautions us to avoid lying to ourselves that we will be the exception to the rule. If America really believed what the Bible says about consequences, our nation would not be heading in its current direction.

III. The Principle Applied

A. The United States was founded on the principles of Scripture. For generations, no one questioned praying or teaching the Bible in school. Court cases and sessions of Congress opened with prayer. During that time period, we sowed faith in God and reaped the blessings.

B. About 50 years ago, things started changing in our nation.

1. Prayer and Bible reading were banned from public education.
2. Anything that mentioned God was removed from government buildings. Example: the Ten Commandments
3. Crosses and other symbols of our faith came under attack, mostly through the court system.
4. We legalized killing unborn babies and have murdered 50 million so far.
5. Same-sex unions are recognized as marriages in some states, although God's Word forbids homosexual acts (Lev. 20:13).
6. More and more, the name of Jesus is a forbidden word. Scripture says the Father gave Him "the name that is above every name" (Phil. 2:9). Can God continue to bless this nation if we refuse to honor the One who gave His life so we might truly live?

C. Essentially, as a nation we have said, "We don't need You, God." In the fifth chapter of Isaiah, verses 20 and 24 warn, "Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil . . . Therefore, as a tongue of fire consumes stubble and dry grass collapses into the flame, so their root will become like rot and their blossom blow away as dust; for they have rejected the law of the LORD of hosts and despised the word of the Holy One of Israel." Man can pass laws legalizing ungodly behavior, but God's principles don't change.

D. What are our scriptural responsibilities?

1. We need to stand up and live out the godly life we profess. If more pastors and other leaders had consistently preached biblical truth, we would not be in the situation America faces today. As believers, we need to faithfully live out our convictions.
2. Speak up. Don't be ashamed of the name of our Savior. One day, "every knee will bow . . . and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord" (Phil. 2:10-11).
3. Cry out to God to change the direction of our nation. He promises that He will respond to that prayer (2 Chron. 7:14). The spiritual core of our nation needs to change, and that change must begin in the house of God.

IV. Conclusion: We reap what we sow, more than we sow, and later than we sow. This fundamental biblical principle is true both in our personal lives and on a national level. We will reap the consequences for our disobedience. Make sure your life is contributing to the spiritual health of this nation, not detracting from it. If you and I want to live in a free country, we must be willing to take responsibility for maintaining our liberty.

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A Financial Plan

A Financial Plan

Malachi 3:3, 6-15
Dr. Charles Stanley
I. Introduction—During these difficult economic times, many people are thinking about their finances. The national debt, high gas prices, and a struggling housing market are causing people to re-evaluate their financial plans. But do their plans match those of the Lord (Mal. 3: 7-15)? God’s plans are the very best, and in His Word, He has given us the wisdom we need to avoid the bondage of debt and attain His blessings.
II. God’s financial plan of promise requires active participation from us. It requires us to step out in faith and actively participate by tithing.

• What is tithing?
  1. A tithe is ten percent of what we produce or earn.
  2. In the simplest terms, it is a penny of every dime you have. The same policy is as true for a dollar or for a million dollars. God provides all that you enjoy, so you must be willing to give a portion of it back to honor Him for all He has blessed you with.
• The command is clear.
  1. It should come from our first fruits, not our leftovers (Prov. 3:9-10).
  2. We are to bring it to the storehouse—the church—to accomplish the work God would have us to do (Mal. 3:10; 1 Cor. 16:2).
• The purpose is clear. The Lord asks us to give to benefit both our own financial health and the community. Tithing allows for three important things:
  1. To provide for the work of God. Our tithes provide for the ministry of the church in its day-to-day operations and to assist those in need both physically and with the Gospel (Acts 2:44-47).
  2. To prove the faithfulness of God. When you and I tithe, the Lord promises to bless us for our faithfulness. He tells us “Test Me now in this. . . I will. . . pour out for you a blessing until it overflows” (Mal. 3:10).
  3. To properly honor God. Tithing allows us to express reverence for the Lord, the source of all good things in our lives (James 1:17). We honor Him when we acknowledge His blessings in our lives, and He blesses that. Remember, our Father will never let us be in need when we are obedient.

III. God is saying two things . . .

• Obey Me. Obeying God in all areas of your life, including your finances, is wise. Blessings will always follow when we are in the will of God.
• Trust Me. God doesn’t tell us, “I might pour out blessings if you obey.” He tells us, “I will give you more than you feel like you can receive.” In fact, Jesus said, “Give and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over” (Luke 6:38). We simply cannot outgive God!

IV. Consider the promises. Those who have claimed the Lord’s promise have not been disappointed. He has transformed their lives. When you tithe, God promises:

• “I will . . . open you the windows of heaven” (Mal. 3:10). In other words, you will experience the Lord’s provision firsthand.
• “I will . . . pour out for you a blessing until it overflows” (v. 10). As you honor God, He increases the blessings in your life in wonderful ways you could never imagine.
• “I will rebuke the devourer” (v. 11). The Father will protect you, your family, your job, and all your possessions.
• “All the nations will call you blessed” (v. 12). The Lord will give you a powerful testimony among your friends and loved ones. Many will come to know Him through your obedience. Also, your children and grandchildren will learn from your example.

V. Consider the penalties. Refusing to tithe is the same as robbing God, and discipline is sure to follow (Mal 3:8).

• Because of your rebellion, unbelief, and ingratitude . . .
  1. You miss out on God’s awesome provision and blessing.
  2. You experience the effects of disobedience in every area of your life.
  3. You are outside the Father’s umbrella of protection.
  4. You damage your testimony because of your unbelief.

VI. Conclusion—Do you believe the Word of God? Do you have faith that the Father will save you and provide for all your needs? Then trust Him with your tithe and watch as He provides for you. Surely, He will fulfill His promise to bless your obedience.

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A Call To Godly Living - Charles F. Stanley

A Call to Godly Living

Scripture: Romans 12:1-2

1. Introduction: God desires that every believer lead a righteous life. But our culture places a tremendous amount of pressure on Christians to "fit in." The doctrines of our faith are often mocked and ridiculed in the public arena. Individual believers sometimes make spiritual or moral compromises in an attempt to be accepted. How can we resist the secular influence of our time? In Romans 12:1-2, the apostle Paul reveals how to pursue holiness and resist compromise.
2. God calls us to godly living.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   1. God's call to surrender our lives to Him as living sacrifices is reasonable because He redeemed us from spiritual darkness and adopted us as children.
      
      
      • In Romans 1-11, Paul explains salvation, victorious Christian living, and the Lord's ultimate plan for Israel. In Romans 12:1-2, he urges believers to give control of their lives to God in light of all He has done for us.
   2. We must make the choice to give control to the Father.
      • As God's people, we no longer have the right to run our own lives, but He still allows us to choose whether or not to surrender. Your entire being—including your mind, will, and emotions—should be yielded to God.
   3. We are called to be living sacrifices.
      • Becoming a "living sacrifice" means we allow the Holy Spirit to live through us. As we surrender to the Spirit's guidance and leadership, He empowers us to live a godly life.
   4. The apostle also urges believers to be holy sacrifices.
      
      
      • In Greek, this word means "set apart" (as in "for a special purpose"). In one of the paradoxes of our faith, sanctification—or being made holy—happens immediately at salvation, but it is also a lifelong process.
   5. Our lives should be acceptable to God.
      • As believers, we ought to be different from the world. Our goal should be to act as Jesus did: forgiving, loving, and helping others—yet knowing when to speak the truth in love or share our faith. When we sin, we should be quick to confess and repent.
        
        A godly lifestyle will attract some people to you, and it will drive others away. But sometimes the same people who resist the gospel will seek out a believer for help when life gets difficult.
3. Those who live in a godly manner will face conflict with the world.
   
   
   1. Pressure from those in the world sometimes causes believers to compromise their convictions.
      
      
      • As individuals, Christians sometimes justify compromising the truth in this way: they claim they are "being a witness" by spending time with ungodly friends, even when that includes making unrighteous choices. Instead, we should make sure our best friends are believers who take their faith seriously
        (2 Cor. 6:14-15, 17; 1 Cor. 15:33). Our highest priority should be to please God rather than to fit in with the world.
   2. Paul warns believers, "Do not be conformed to this
      world" (Rom. 12:2).
      
      
      • The media frequently portrays the idea that if we become rich, attractive, influential, or famous, we will be happy and content. But none of things guarantee joy. Don't let our culture shape your value system and determine your priorities.
   3. To resist conforming to the world's image, you must "be transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Rom. 12:2). But how?
      • Fill your mind with Scripture. It is through the Bible that we learn God's perspective.
      • Focus on positive, righteous, and holy things (Col. 3:3; Phil. 4:8). This should include choosing friends and entertainment wisely.
      • Apply biblical truth to your heart. As you go about your day, ask God to show you how to put into practice the principles of His Word.
      • Practice the presence of the Lord. God is always with you. Ask Him to make you more sensitive to His presence. As you allow the Holy Spirit to live through you, He will help you withstand temptation and become more Christlike.
4. Conclusion: The key to living a godly life is full surrender. That means we must let God have complete control over our lives. The Lord is looking for faithful men and women who will stand up for truth in a world that is increasingly opposed to the gospel. Rather than base your standards on popular opinion, allow Scripture to set your values. Answer the Lord's call to a godly life, and you will never be the same.

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Jesus Heals the Woman with Blood Issue

What can we know about this woman from these passages?

• She was suffering from menstruating bleeding issue for 12 years.
• She had spent all she had to get cured. (Luke 8: 43 (KJV) – “And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years, which had spent all her living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any.”)
• She did not give up in spite of suffering from 12 years. In Jesus, she saw hope of being healed.
• She was instantly healed. She felt and knew that she was healed.
• She made a public confession of her healing and faith in Jesus Christ.

Why did she not go directly to Jesus for healing?

• According to the Jewish law, man who touches a menstruating woman becomes ceremonially unclean. (Levi 15: 19-28) In that regard, she would have been ‘untouchable’ for 12 years.
• She might have feared that Jesus would avoid healing her.
• She did not doubt that Jesus had a power to heal her.
• The nature of her disease may also be the reason. In an eastern culture, women issues are never spoken of in public.
• Perhaps, past failures were in her mind. So, she decided to take more secretive way. If she did not get healed, no one would have known that she even tried.
• She thought to herself, “If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed.”

Did Jesus know who touched him?

• It is unclear whether Jesus knew who touched him or not.  There are two opinions about it.
• First one says that Jesus knew who touched him. But he wanted her to come forward and profess her faith and healing. Jesus being God must know who touched him.
• The second opinion is that he really did not know who touched him. From his conversation with Peter, it seems likely that he knew that power had gone out from him, but not sure how. I believe that Jesus was not pretending there, He really did not know, and that does not affect him being God. There were other things, he did not know. (Mark 13:32 Jesus’ second coming).

Lost in the Crowd:

• Even when she was healed, she did not come forward immediately. She thought that she could go unnoticed, get lost in the crowd.
• But Jesus noticed, he felt that the power had gone out of him. And he was persistent to know who that person was.
• We all have a tendency to act in a way that we can go unnoticed; we can slip in the crowd. We do not want to profess it publicly. Often we hear that our faith is personal. Yes, it is a personal decision, but we also need to acknowledge it to others.
• In case of this woman, she came trembling at Jesus’ feet, but then she went on to tell everyone, ‘why’ she touched him and how she was instantly healed. (Notice that Jesus only asked ‘who’ touched him and not ‘why’!)

What was so significant about her action? What makes her faith so special?

• Unshakable: She had a single focus that if she touches his cloak, she will be healed. She did not let the circumstances or doubts shake her faith.
• Unbelievable: Her faith was truly unbelievable. She believed what was not there. But that is the very definition of faith. (Hebrew 11:1)
• Unreasonable: In some ways, it was unreasonable. One cannot reason it in itself. Only in the light of the object of faith, it makes sense.
• Faith at its core is a simple trust and belief in a person. It is a childlike faith that moves the mountain.
• Jesus wanted to instill this kind of faith in his disciples (who often failed to exercise such faith). He often rebuked them for being “of little faith”.
• Even after receiving the healing, she showed extraordinary courage to come forward and share everything in presence of all people.
• Jesus praised her for her amazing faith and blessed her; it was a powerful testimony of God’s power and faith of a person at work.
• Testimony of healing can have powerful impact on people, especially those who do not know Jesus.
• “One miracle is equivalent to one thousand sermons.” – Angus Buchan (Faith like Potatoes).

Life Applications and Reflections:

• Jesus knows us; he knows our personal struggles, weakness, sickness. We can hide it from others, but He notices us and seeks out for us.
• We need to respond to him, we must be willing to acknowledge Him in the presence of others. We must be willing to share with others.
• The extraordinary faith is a simple, unwavering, childlike faith in Him.
• Without faith, it is impossible to please God.
• Are you willing to put your trust in Him? You may be going through any physical, emotional, spiritual pain or sickness; He can heal you if you just believe in Him.
• “Where is your faith?”

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A Heart for God - Charles F. Stanley

A Heart for God

Charles F. Stanley

Scripture: Acts 13:16-23

I. Introduction: How would you like to be remembered? Saints such as Abraham, Moses, David, Peter, and Paul have inspired believers throughout the ages. Each of them, although imperfect, is an amazing example of what the Lord can do through hearts that are truly committed to Him. Do you want to be like them—a person who honors God wholeheartedly?

II. We have an excellent example to follow.
The Bible says that King David followed God with all his heart (Acts 13:22-23). At the core of everything he did was a desire to exalt the Lord. The Father wants our paths to be governed by His plans, our interests to be defined by His purposes, and our love to motivate us to obey Him without reservation. When we pursue God’s heart, we find life at its best and a legacy worth leaving to those who come after us.

III. How can we know if we are following God with all our heart?

A. The priority of our life is our personal relationship with the Lord.
A person after God’s heart makes his or her relationship with Him a top priority.David had an overwhelming love and respect for Scripture because it taught him how to draw closer to the Father (Ps. 119:15-16, 105). He often sought God in prayer for strength, wisdom, and the Father’s wonderful presence (Ps. 5:3, 63:6-8).

B. We place our trust in the Lord when facing trials and difficulties.
David trusted in God no matter what hardship he faced. While the rest of Israel’s warriors cowered before Goliath’s terrifying nine-foot frame, David was outraged by how the Philistine dishonored God’s name (1 Sam. 17:45-46). Throughout his life, he endured extraordinary challenges with great confidence that the Lord would help him. Because of David’s faith and leadership, Israel prospered in a manner unsurpassed to this day.

C. We have a strong, passionate desire to obey God.
As a man after God’s heart, David delighted in accomplishing the Lord’s will. His obedience wasn’t motivated by the fear of sin’s consequences. Rather, it was David’s trust and love for God that led him to submit wholly to the Lord. On two occasions, David had the opportunity to kill Saul and take the throne of Israel. Yet he preferred to be obedient to God than to be the king (1 Sam. 24:6).

D. We demonstrate a spirit of humility.
This future king also shows us that a person with a heart for God is humble. David had many reasons to be proud—he was a handsome man, a skilled musician, the Lord’s anointed ruler, a triumphant warrior, and a national hero. Yet in 2 Samuel 7:18, David said, “Who am I, O Lord God, and what is my house, that You have brought me this far?”

E. We demonstrate the spirit of a servant.
When he was young, David accepted his father’s authority and obediently tended sheep. As a worker in Saul’s household, David offered his very best to the king, including his musical talents and skills as a military leader. Finally, David served the people of Israel wholeheartedly as their king. In each instance, he was a dedicated, faithful servant of God.

IV. Conclusion: Do you desire to mirror God’s heart and to influence those around you for good? You would be wise to follow David’s example. Make your relationship with the Lord a top priority, and trust and obey Him in everything. When you succeed, remember that all you are and have is a gift from God. Then you will show the world that your heart belongs exclusively to Him.

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EVERY THINGS BETTER WHEN GOD'S ON IT

I. It Is A Better Way Of Life
A.

Those who give themselves

wholly to the Lord,

B.  Realizing the truth of I Cor. 6:19

What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is inyou, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

(1)

Have a life that is far superior  to a LOST person.

(a)

The best way to live is to live for theLord

(b)

It would be terrible to get to the endof the   LIFE and realize you hadwasted your life:1. Serving sin or self.(2) Christian life is better (a)  It is a life of peace,(b) Life of promises(c)  Life of power.(d)  Who in their right mind would want toforsake the life we have in Jesus?

 

II. It Is A Better Quality Of Life.

A) The Bible says much about the life that we have inand through the Lord Jesus Christ.a) First, it is eternal life.Our physical lives one daywill end,

i)

But the salvation of God is eternal (Jn. 3:16)

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, thatwhosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

b)

Secondly, it is abundant life (Jn. 10:10).

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I amcome that they might have life, and that they might have it moreabundantly.

B)

The word "abundant" means an "overflowing" lifewhere there should never be any spiritualshortages.

C)

Thirdly, it is a gratifying life (Phil. 4:13).

I can do all things through Christ, which strengtheneth me.

 a) Since we have life from Godi) You can be sure nothing can surpass or excel it in any way.

 

III. It Is A Better View Of Life.

A)

The Bible speaks of a "better hope" that we havein the Lord (Heb. 7:19).

For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did;by the which we draw nigh unto God.

B)  It is a sure, confident expectation of better thingsfor the future.

a)

Hope is associated with the second coming 

of the Lord Jesus Christ (Titus 2:13).

Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of thegreat God and our Savior Jesus Christ;

b)

Like an "anchor" in life to settle and stabilize

us (Heb. 6:19). Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure andsteadfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;

IV. It Brings Better Companions In Life.

 A) When you are saved

a)

You become more conscious and careful aboutyour company (Psalm 119:63).

I am a companion of all them that fear thee, and of them that keepthy precepts.

b)

It is the desire of the righteous to seek thecompany of those that have the same spirit of the Lord.

 

CLOSE

A) EVERY THING IS BETTER WHEN GODS ON ITa) OUR WAY OF LIFE IS BETTERb) OUR QUALTIY OF LIFEi) IS ETERNALii) IS ABUNDANTOVERFLOWINGiii) IS GRATIFINGNOTHING IS OUT OFREACH THRU CHRISTc) OUR VEIW OF LIFE IS BETTERi) THERE’S HOPEii) THE LORD IS COMING BACKiii) WE ARE ANCHOR IN WHAT Jesus DIDd) OUR COMPANIONS WILL LOVE THE LORDi) STRIVE TO HAVE CHRISTAIN FRIENDS

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RESPONDING TO MATERIALISM

INTRODUCTION

1. We live in a very materialistic society...
   a. As evidenced in our popular culture (music, TV, etc.)
   b. As expressed in the desire for an affluent lifestyle

2. Materialism is dangerous foe to the Christian...
   a. The deceitfulness of riches can render the Christian fruitless
      - Mt 13:22
   b. The desire for riches can ensnare the Christian, leading him
      astray - 1Ti 6:9-10

3. What can we do as Christians, and as the church?  Consider God's use
   of Isaiah...
   a. Sent to a corrupt and materialistic society - Isa 1:21-23
   b. Offering that which truly satisfies - Isa 55:1-3

[Today, Jesus has a similar response, which we can offer to a world that
is starving for what truly satisfies...]

I. JESUS' RESPONSE TO MATERIALISM

   A. EXPOSES THE DEFICIENCY OF RICHES...
      1. Many think of "the good life" in terms of material prosperity
      2. Jesus taught there is more to life than material possessions
         a. Man's life does not consist in the abundance of possessions
            - Lk 12:15
         b. As illustrated in the parable of the rich fool - Lk 12:16-21
      3. Jesus taught the insecurity of riches - Mt 6:19-20
         a. They are susceptible to corruption
         b. They are open to theft
      4. Jesus taught the danger of riches - Mt 6:21-24
         a. They can dominate our affections
         b. They can blind us to the true light
         c. They can prevent us from being able to serve God
      -- Thus the message of Jesus is one of correcting our
         misconceptions; riches do not make one happy!

   B. EXTENDS THE TRULY ABUNDANT LIFE...
      1. Jesus offers a life filled with peace - cf. Jn 14:27
         a. Peace with God through justification - Ro 5:1-2
         b. Peace with man through reconciliation - Ep 2:14-16
         c. Peace with self through supplication - Php 4:6-7
         -- The peace Jesus offers "surpasses all understanding" - Ph
            4:7
      2. Jesus offers a life filled with love - cf. Jn 15:9
         a. Love patterned after the Father's love for the Son - Jn 15:9
         b. Love that can be fervent, yet pure between brethren - 1 Pe
            1:22
         c. Love that can be extended even toward enemies - Mt 5:43-45
         -- The love Jesus offers "passes knowledge" - Ep 3:9
      3. Jesus offers a life filled with joy - cf. Jn 15:11
         a. His commandments, His promises, all are designed to impart
            joy - Jn 15:11
         b. A joy that can abound in any circumstance - e.g., Php 2:
            17-18; 4:4; 1Pe 1:6
         -- The joy Jesus offers is "inexpressible" - 1Pe 1:8
      -- By offering such peace, love, and joy, perhaps we can
         appreciate why Jesus said He offers an "abundant" life - cf. Jn
         10:10

[To communicate this response to a materialistic society, Jesus calls
upon His church.  While it certainly entails proclaiming the gospel, let
me suggest some additional thoughts about...]

II. OUR RESPONSE TO MATERIALISM

   A. EXEMPLIFY JESUS' RESPONSE AS INDIVIDUALS...
      1. As individuals we must possess the peace, love, and joy Jesus
         offers
         a. Which comes through heeding His words - Jn 15:10-11
         b. Which comes through spending time in prayer - Php 4:6-7
         -- If we fail to spend the time necessary in such activities,
            how convincing can we be that we have a more "abundant" life
            to offer?
      2. As individuals we must not depend on material things for true
         happiness
         a. If poor, learn the secret of contentment - cf. 1Ti 6:6-8;
            Php 4:11-13
         b. If rich, trust not in riches but be quick to help those in
            need - cf. 1Ti 6:17-19
         -- Being content and willing to share goes a long way toward
            demonstrating that Jesus' response to materialism really
            means something!

   B. EXEMPLIFY JESUS' RESPONSE AS A CONGREGATION...
      1. The value of a congregational demonstration cannot be taken
         lightly
         a. Jesus stressed the value of brotherly love and unity - Jn
            13: 35; 17:20-21
         b. His church illustrated the value of congregational love and
            joy - cf. Ac 2:46-47; 6:7 (in light of 6:1-6)
      2. We should make sure that our fellowship and worship
         demonstrates...
         a. The love we have found in Christ (e.g., by the way we greet
            one another)
         b. The joy of being Christians (e.g., by the way we praise God)
         c. The peace Jesus made possible (e.g., by the way we work
            together)
      3. We should be careful as a congregation not to fall into a
         materialistic trap
         a. By placing too much concern over such things as:
            1) The physical facilities in which we meet
            2) The physical appearances of the members or visitors
         b. Not that is wrong to have comfortable facilities or to look
            nice
            1) But that should not be our primary concern
            2) But not to the neglect of truly important matters (like
               saving souls)!
         c. Otherwise we could be guilty of being like the Laodiceans
            - Re 3:17
            1) Who thought they were "rich, wealthy, and have need of
               nothing"
            2) Who were unaware they were "wretched, miserable, poor,
               blind, and naked"

CONCLUSION

1. The rampant materialism in our society provides us with an
   opportunity...
   a. For materialism leaves one in a state of spiritual malnutrition
   b. Therefore often ripe for the true feast Jesus has to offer

2. What does Jesus offer...?
   a. Rest for a weary soul - Mt 11:28-30
   b. Rivers of living water for a thirsty soul - Jn 7:37-39
   -- Which He provides through His cleansing blood and life-quickening
      Spirit - Ac 2:38-39

3. But if those trapped in materialism are going to believe such is
   possible...
   a. We need to make sure that we are offering the "abundant life" as a
      viable alternative
   b. Both individually and as a congregation of God's people!

Are we experiencing the peace that "surpasses all understanding," the
love which "passes knowledge," and the joy that is "inexpressible"?

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THE PROBLEM OF RELIGIOUS DIVISION

INTRODUCTION

1. Every disciple who follows Jesus should be concerned with unity among
   believers...
   a. In light of Jesus' prayer for unity - Jn 17:20-23
   b. In light of Paul's condemnation of division - 1Co 1:10-13

2. From Jesus and Paul we learn...
   a. Unity can be a powerful witness to the world
   b. Division is often a mark of carnality and spiritual immaturity
      - cf. 1Co 3:3-4

3. Unfortunately, many who claim to follow Jesus...
   a. Have not done a very good job in displaying unity
   b. Have hindered the cause of Christ at different times and different
      places

[To illustrate what I mean, let's take a brief look at...]

I. THE PROBLEM OF DIVISION

   A. EXISTED IN THE DAYS OF THE EARLY CHURCH...
      1. The church at Corinth - 1Co 1:10-13; 3:3-4; 11:18
      2. The conduct of Diotrephes - 3Jn 9-10
      -- Such turmoil was anticipated by The Parable Of The Tares - Mt
         13:24-30,36-43

   B. CONTINUED THROUGHOUT CHURCH HISTORY...
      1. With the schisms between Roman and Orthodox churches
      2. With the denominational divisions of the Protestant churches,
         despite statements as:
         a. "I ask that men make no reference to my name, and call
            themselves not Lutherans, but Christians.  What is Luther?
            My doctrine, I am sure, is not mine, nor have I been
            crucified for any one. St. Paul, in 1Co . 3, would not allow
            Christians to call themselves Pauline or Petrine, but
            Christian.  How then should I, poor, foul carcass that I am,
            come to have men give to the children of Christ a name
            derived from my worthless name?  No, no, my dear friends;
            let us abolish all party names, and call ourselves
            Christians after Him Whose doctrine we have." - Martin
            Luther
         b. "Would to God that all party names, and unscriptural phrases
            and forms which have divided the Christian world, were
            forgot and that the very name [Methodist] might never be
            mentioned more, but be buried in eternal oblivion." - John
            Wesley
         c. "I look forward with pleasure to the day when there will not
            be a Baptist living!  I hope that the Baptist name will soon
            perish, but let Christ's name last forever." - Charles
            Spurgeon

   C. PRESENT IN THE RELIGIOUS WORLD TODAY...
      1. As demonstrated by the literally thousands of denominations
      2. Even among churches of Christ
         a. Whose plea for unity as been a major theme in what makes
            them distinctive
         b. Yet today there have been nearly twenty (20) identifiable
            divisions in the last 150 years
         c. And there have been countless divisions in individual
            congregations over matters of personality rather than
            doctrine!

[The problem of division continues, despite the devastating effect it
has on our witness for Christ.  What can be done by those who want to
work toward the unity for which Jesus prayed...?]

II. THE SOLUTION FOR UNITY

   A. ACCEPT THE SAME STANDARD OF AUTHORITY...
      1. This is the first step toward religious unity
         a. The need for a standard can be easily illustrated (e.g.,
            agreeing on the length of a line)
         b. For Christians, the standard must be the Word of God as
            revealed through Jesus and His apostles
            1) Jesus has all authority - Mt 28:18
            2) We must abide in His doctrine - Jn 8:31; 2Jn 9
            3) The Spirit led the apostles into all the truth - Jn 16:
               13; Ac 20:27; 2Pe 1:3
            4) We must continue steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine
               - Ac 2:42; 1Co 14:37
      2. This requires putting away all other standards of authority
         a. Such as creeds, traditions of men, ecclesiastical councils,
            etc.
         b. Also personal or parental preferences and opinions
         c. Things not explicitly authorized in the Scriptures
      3. The same standard of authority can quickly unify those willing
         to follow it
         a. E.g., how many baptisms are there?
         b. Those seeking to maintain the unity of the Spirit will
            answer:  "one baptism" - cf. Ep 4:3-6

   B. DEVELOP CHRIST-LIKE ATTITUDES...
      1. This is required to maintain true unity in Christ
         a. For many can claim to the let the Bible be their only
            standard
         b. Yet differing views often exist, for understandable reasons
            1) Varying degrees of maturity
            2) Varying levels of knowledge
      2. So we must display Christ-like virtues as we seek the mind of
         Christ
         a. Lowliness, gentleness, longsuffering, bearing with one
            another in love - Ep 4:1-3
         b. A lack of selfish ambition or conceit, esteeming others
            better than ourselves - Php 2:1-5
         c. Patient, in humility correcting those in opposition - 2 Ti
            2:24-26

   C. RESTRAIN PERSONAL LIBERTIES...
      1. Much division results from brethren pressing what they perceive
         to be their freedom in Christ
         a. Imposing such "freedom" on those who conscience would be
            violated
         b. Forcing brethren to either leave or sin against their
            conscience
      2. Paul taught brethren to restrain their "liberties" for the sake
         of their brethren
         a. In writing to the saints in Rome - Ro 14:14-15,21; 15:1-3
         b. In writing to the church at Corinth - 1Co 8:9-13; 10:24,
            31-33
      3. When "Christ-like attitudes" are joined together with a
         willingness to restrain liberty...
         a. Christians are more likely to remain united in their actions
            together
         b. Christians are more likely to one day be united in their
            thinking as well!

   D. FOCUS YOUR EFFORTS...
      1. First, on yourself!
         a. Resolve to be simply a Christian, a disciple of Jesus Christ
         b. Put away any belief or practice based on traditions of men,
            not the Word of God
         c. Develop the virtues that contributes to unity among
            Christians
            1) Those Christ-like attitudes mention earlier
            2) A willingness to restrain personal liberties for the sake
               of your brother
      2. Next, on your local congregation!
         a. That it not be one contributing to religious division (i.e.,
            a denomination)
         b. That it accepts the Word of God for its final authority
         c. That it puts away all names, practices, traditions, not
            taught by the Scriptures
         d. That it is concerned with the unity of believers
      3. Then, on others in your community!
         a. Individuals who desire to be true disciples of Jesus
         b. Congregations willing to take Jesus' prayer and Paul's
            condemnation seriously

CONCLUSION

1. You may feel there is little one can do with the problem of
   division...
   a. Denominationalism is so rampant
   b. Religious division has been around so long

2. Yet two thoughts come to mind that encourage me to try...
   a. I can at least save myself and those who hear me - cf. 1Ti 4:16
   b. Great things can have a small beginning - cf. Mt 13:31-33

If unity among believers was so important to Jesus, how can we not make
the effort to maintain the unity He made possible by His death on the
cross? - cf. Ep 2:13-16

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PRIVATE DEVOTIONS

INTRODUCTION

1. Great men of God were noted for engaging in private devotions...
   a. Isaac meditated in the field at evening - Gen 24:63
   b. David prayed three times daily, meditated on his bed at night
      - Ps 55:17; 63:6
   c. Daniel's custom was to pray three times daily - Dan 6:10

2. Private devotions is encouraged by the Son of God...
   a. Jesus sought solitary places at early morn and late night - Mk
      1:35; Lk 6:12
   b. He counseled His disciples to pray in secret - Mt 6:6

[You may faithfully attend public worship with God's people, but do you
also take the time to engage in daily, private devotions...?]

I. WHY HAVE PRIVATE DEVOTIONS

   A. TO DRAW NEAR TO GOD...
      1. God is found by those who seek Him
         a. As David advised his son Solomon - 1Ch 28:9
         b. As Azariah told the king Asa - 2Ch 15:2
      2. God draws near to those who draw near to Him - Jm 4:8
      -- Do you want a closer walk with God?

   B. TO RECEIVE SPIRITUAL NOURISHMENT...
      1. We need spiritual nourishment in our lives - Mt 4:4
         a. Man cannot thrive on physical food alone
         b. We need spiritual food that nourishes the soul
      2. Spiritual growth comes from the Word of God - 1Pe 1:23; 2:2
         a. We are born again through the incorruptible seed
         b. We continue to grow by the Word of God
      3. God's Word provides spiritual strength - Ep 6:10-17; cf. Psa
         119:7-11
         a. We need God's help to fight our spiritual battles
         b. The Word of God provides such help!
      -- Do you want a stronger, spiritual life?

   C. TO FIND PEACE AND STABILITY...
      1. We live in a world filled with anxiety; prayer provides the
         antidote - Php 4:6-7
      2. We live in a world filled with pitfalls; God's Word keeps us
         from falling - Ps 119:105,165
      -- Do you want inner peace and outer stability?

[More than ever, we need to take the time to draw near to God, to
receive spiritual nourishment, to find peace and stability.  The habit
of daily, private devotions can go a long way...]

II. HOW TO HAVE PERSONAL DEVOTIONS

   A. FIND A TIME AND PLACE...
      1. The time may vary for different individuals
         a. For "night owls", the best time may be late at night, after
            the children are in bed
         b. For "morning larks", early morning before the children wake
            up might be better
         c. The key is to find a quiet time, free from worldly
            distractions
      2. The place may also vary for different people
         a. Some may prefer a place outside, following the example of
            Jesus - cf. Mk 1:35
         b. Some may prefer a place inside, following the teaching of
            Jesus - cf. Mt 6:6
         c. The key is to find a solitary place, free from worldly
            distractions
      -- To develop a habit, the time and place should be the same each
         day

   B. ENGAGE IN PRAYER, MEDITATION, AND PRAISE...
      1. Approach God in prayer
         a. Thank Him for your blessings - cf. Col 4:2
         b. Confess your sins - cf. 1Jn 1:9
         c. Make supplication for your needs - cf. Php 4:6
         d. Intercede on behalf of others - cf. 1Ti 2:1-2
      2. Spend time in meditation - contemplate on such things as:
         a. The Lord Himself (His character) - Ps 63:6
         b. His wonderful Works (both creative and redemptive) - cf. Psa
            77:12
         c. His revealed Word - Ps 119:15,23,48,97-99,148
         d. Things that are wholesome and praiseworthy - cf. Php 4:8
      3. Praise God in song - perhaps aided by recorded hymns
         a. A natural response to joy in the heart - cf. Jm 5:13
         b. Making melody in your heart - cf. Ep 5:19
      -- Talk with God through prayer, praise; listen to Him by
         contemplating His Word

CONCLUSION

1. Living in world filled with sin, there is much that would...
   a. Fill our lives with stress and anxiety
   b. Pull us away from God and things that are good

2. Making room for private devotions in our lives, will help greatly
   to...
   a. Walk closer with our Father in heaven
   b. Receive strength of heart and peace of mind in doing His will

If David, a man after God's own heart, and Jesus, the Son of God
Himself, found it needful to spend time alone with God, how much more do
we...!

   "I rise before the dawning of the morning, And cry for help; I
   hope in Your word. My eyes are awake through the night watches,
   That I may meditate on Your word."
                                                - Ps 119:147-148

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Principles of Church Growth

INTRODUCTION

1. The Lord desires for His church to grow...
   a. He provides gifts to ensure spiritual growth and development - Ep
      4:11-16
   b. He provides increase through our connection with Him as the head
      - Col 2:19

2. Yet church growth is not automatic...
   a. Some churches become stagnant
   b. Other churches enter a downward spiral till they cease to exist

[To avoid either of these catastrophes, there are two important
principles of church growth that must be understood and applied.  The
first of these is...]

I. EACH PART MUST DO ITS SHARE

   A. CHURCH GROWTH IS ENHANCED...
      1. When each member does his or her part as a member of the body
         - Ep 4:16
         a. We all have a function to fulfill - Ro 12:3-8
         b. Every member is important - 1Co 12:12-22
      2. When each member is drawing strength from the Head - Ep 4:16;
         Col 2:19
         a. Directly through God's indwelling - Php 2:12-13; 4:13; Ep 3:
            16,20
         b. Indirectly from one another - cf. 2Co 1:3-5
      -- Nourished from above and from within, a congregation is bound
         to grow

   B. CHURCH GROWTH IS ENDANGERED...
      1. When members do not do their part
         a. The church is handicapped by nonfunctioning members
         b. The church cannot perform to its full potential
      2. When other members have to make up the difference
         a. Who often struggle under the extra burden
         b. Who sometimes become disheartened, even give up
      -- When members won't do their part, a church cannot grow as God
         intended

[The second principle of church growth that is crucial to understand and
apply is...]

II. THE STRONG MUST BEAR WITH THE WEAK

   A. CHURCH GROWTH IS ENHANCED...
      1. When strong members understand the weakness in others
         a. As the church evangelizes...
            1) There will always be babes in Christ
            2) There will always be those who are weak
         b. As the church grows, such growth can be messy - cf. Pr 14:4
            1) Many new members haven't had the benefit of good role
               models
            2) Some families may not know their duties as parents,
               spouses, children
            3) It will take time for many Christians to learn principles
               of godly living
      2. When strong members remember their duty toward the weak
         a. To bear with the infirmities of the weak - Ro 15:1-2; Ga 6:
            1-2
            1) Not to please ourselves
            2) To restore those overtaken in faults
         b. To be patient with the weak - 1Th 5:14
            1) We must accommodate the weak in order to grow ("Growth
               comes out of weakness")
            2) Many churches fail to grow because the strong expect too
               much from the weak
      -- With strong members bearing with weak members, the help needed
         for the weak to grow will be provided

   B. CHURCH GROWTH IS ENDANGERED...
      1. When strong members become disheartened
         a. They become weary of well-doing - cf. Ga 6:9
         b. They begin to feel their labor is in vain - cf. 1Co 15:58
         c. They think about leaving to go elsewhere
            1) Where they may be more appreciated
            2) Where there may be others willing to work
      2. When strong members lose their source of strength; yet
         consider...
         a. Longsuffering is a fruit of the Spirit - Ga 5:22-23
         b. Longsuffering with joy is a gift from God - Col 1:10-11
         c. Becoming disheartened can be an indication the strong are in
            trouble
            1) Because God's strength is unlimited - cf. Ep 3:20
               a) We may be depending too much on our own strength
               b) Not looking to the Lord for the strength He provides
                  - Ep 6:10-13
            2) We may forget...
               a) The joy of serving for the Lord's sake alone, even if
                  others do not appreciate it
               b) The joy of eating cake, even when there is no icing on
                  the cake
            3) We must not lose our perspective
               a) There will always be the weak
               b) Dealing with weak is necessary training for future
                  shepherds and teachers
         -- If the strong members become weak, a church cannot grow!

CONCLUSION

1. We have considered two principles of church growth...
   a. Each part must do its share
   b. The strong must bear with the weak

2. We have seen that...
   a. Growth is enhanced when each part does its share
   b. Growth is endangered when members don't do their part
   c. Growth is enhanced when the strong bear with the weak
   d. Growth is endangered when the strong themselves become weary

3. May we consider what we all need to be doing to help the Lord's
   church grow...
   a. Fulfill our function in the body of Christ
   b. Do our share in the work of the church
   c. Grow as we should in the service of the Lord
   d. Bear with the infirmities of the weak
   e. Look to Lord for strength to avoid becoming disheartened

   "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always
   abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is
   not in vain in the Lord." - 1Co 15:58

   "And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season
   we shall reap if we do not lose heart." - Ga 6:9

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Healing the Hurts of Life

  Background: John 11:10-18I. Pain Is a Universal Experience (vv. 19-20)Some pain is physical, the result of injury or illness. Some pain is emotional, imposed by friends and foes or rising from our own fears or frustrations. Whether the hurt is real or imagined, it still hurts and usually is associated with some kind of loss. A. Different in kind (physical, emotional) B. Different in degree (pain threshold) C. Some pain is open (striking out) D. Some pain is hidden (callusing the heart)II. People React to Pain Differently (vv. 21, 32b)Death. Divorce. Disease. Disasters. They are all alike. They cause loss; loss produces grief; grief can lead the best of us to question God, raising our faces and fists toward heaven and asking, "Why?" Do we really think that having some rationale for loss will make the pain less? Hurting people are seldom rational. We really want someone to blame. Hurting people sometimes tend to hurt other people, striking a physical form because the real source of pain is often intangible. If God is supposed to be in charge of the universe, why did He let this happen? If He is good and powerful, how could He not prevent something like this from happening? A. Withdrawal ("Where do you go when you hurt deeply?") B. Aggression (Striking out at others) C. Questioning the goodness of God ("Lord, if you had been here our brother would not have died.") D. Overcompensation (Do more, be more, win more: "How do you express your pain?")III. Jesus Understands Your Pain (vv. 23, 33-35)God does understand our pain, whether we are ready to believe that or not. What sickness have we suffered that could equal the pain of the scourge? What injury can we experience that approaches the wounds of the cross? A. Rejection ("He came to His own, and His own received Him not.")

B. Betrayal (He was betrayed with a kiss.) C. Shame (The shame of the cross [Heb. 12:2])IV. You Must Want to be Healed (vv. 24-32a)God also wants to do something about our pain. Jesus not only wept with Mary and Martha, He took the next step. Unfortunately, some people prefer pain to healing. A. Pity Parties B. Excuses (You don't understand.) C. Rather endure pain than forgiveFaith is a risk. We risk that nothing will happen and our faith will be shattered like a glass fallen on the kitchen floor. We risk further loss—the loss of trust, the loss of what little we had left. Too many people are not willing to take that great a gamble, so they choose to disbelieve the supernatural, to deny the spiritual. Ironically, they find it less painful simply to have no God than to have One who allows such hurt into their lives.

V. You Must Remove the Barriers—Attitudes (vv. 26, 37-40)For Martha, the stone represented the barrier between the pain of grief and the deeper pain of a dead brother. She objected to smelling the stench of his decaying body. She feared the sight would be more than she could endure.For Jesus, the stone was no barrier to healing. He easily could heal Lazarus without having the door to the grave opened. What of Lazarus? A common human fear is to awaken inside a casket, having been buried alive by mistake. Jesus would not be so cruel as to bring Lazarus back to life in the darkness of the tomb.Too, Jesus wanted Martha to exercise her faith. He wanted her to believe before there were facts to aid belief. All of the people present soon would see Lazarus walk out; Jesus wanted Martha to know the joy of belief while her brother was still in the tomb.If we want our hurts to be healed, we must remove the stones blocking the way. For one, it may be anger or bitterness. For some, the pain itself prevents the touch of healing as we jerk away from the balm that would take away the pain. For another, the barrier is unbelief or the stubborn refusal to admit the existence of a power greater than ourselves. We cling to the illusion of control, willing to suffer rather than give up our self-sufficiency. A.  Anger, Scapegoating B. Guilt C. Sin (confession, repentance) D.  Surrender of will (You cannot have fast-food healing.)VI. Healing Is Not Superficial (vv. 41-44)Jesus wants not only to heal us from the hurts in our lives, but to loose us from the grave clothes of doubt that keep us from living His abundant life. While we would prefer never to have the pain in the first place, we really can only choose to deal with pain on our own or allow the Healer to touch us at the point of our pain. He may remove its source or relieve its result. He may release you from the pain or strengthen you to endure it. —Lazarus was made whole. — "Loose him, let him go!"Conclusion: God wants to heal you completely, to free you of decaying grave clothes that bind your heart and soul and prevent wholeness. Is the stone that blocks your healing too heavy for you to move? Allow Him, and He will do that for you. No stone could keep Him from the grave of His friend any more than could a rock block His own grave. Stones cannot keep Him from one who needs healing.Invitation: More gentle than a mother's kiss, the touch of the Healer awaits our willingness and faith. He who came to heal broken hearts and bind up wounded spirits stands just outside, ready to do in us what we never could do for ourselves. Will you let God do what only He can do?

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